21 September 2015

Bijlmer Bridge2Hope is back in session
after our summer break!We met a few
times during the summer months, and now that autumn has arrived, our regular
sessions have resumed. It feels good to get back into our weekly class
schedules and routines!Our vocational
trainer is working with the women to have articles ready to market for the Sinterklaas
festivities here in the Netherlands, and the ladies are excited to resume Dutch
language learning, they have been practicing over the summer and are continuing
to pick up the language very well. In addition, their professional counseling
sessions and PTSD therapy continue on a weekly basis.

Products made by Bijlmer Bridge2Hope participants

Some products made by Bijlmer Bridge2Hope participants

Making jewelry

A finished bracelet

Our group has been dedicated to learning new
skills and bettering themselves, but in reality there are many daily challenges
that our ladies face legally, personally, and collectively as a group. For
example, money is always a constant concern, not only for day-to-day survival,
but also for their children to continue to be educated.School fees, transportation costs and required
school extras all quickly add up putting lots of pressure on those in the group
who have children.The women do, nevertheless,
persevere and take an active role in the Bridge2Hope program in order to see a
better future for themselves and their families.

Bijlmer Bridge2Hope vigorously works to
help our survivors excel, feel confident, and regain control in all areas of their
life.However, in order to run the
program and help our ladies, we do need funds.We do this is through fundraisers, grants, and personal donations.This spring we held the first annual Chocolate
Rush competition at the Leiden Culinair festival, and it was a lot of fun! The
panel of judges had some very delicious entries to taste and award prizes to.We are all looking forward to hosting the
second annual Chocolate Rush competition next year! Stay tuned to the blog for this
and other fun upcoming events that will be held!

Chocolate fountain at the Chocolate Rush competition in Leiden

Also if you ever have any questions or
comments about our program, what we do, and how we use our donations feel free
to ask, either in the blog comments or send me a message. I am happy to answer
any questions you may have! Also, if you
feel inclined to help our survivors of human trafficking, through Bijlmer
Bridge2Hope project, please donate through the link on our website: http://www.thebijlmerproject.com/donate.html